PMQT Written Answers – 18 July 1995

Below is the text of the written answers relating to Prime Minister’s Question Time from 18th July 1995.

PRIME MINISTER:

Celebration (4 July)

Mr. Skinner: To ask the Prime Minister what was the cost to public funds for the celebrations held on the evening of 4 July at No. 10 Downing Street.

The Prime Minister: Any additional costs to the public purse were de minimis and, in accordance with long-standing practice, no charge will be levied.

Sir Peter Levene

Mr. Gallie: To ask the Prime Minister whether there will be any changes in the responsibilities of his efficiency adviser, Sir Peter Levene, following the recent reallocation of certain ministerial responsibilities.

The Prime Minister: Sir Peter Levene will continue to fulfil his responsibilities as efficiency adviser to the Prime Minister. In addition to this role, Sir Peter will also advise the Deputy Prime Minister on his responsibilities for the working of government and the competitiveness agenda.

French Nuclear Testing

Mr. Corbyn: To ask the Prime Minister on what dates he was contacted by President Chirac of France concerning the French proposed resumption of nuclear testing at Mururoa atoll; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister: The details of these discussions with President Chirac are confidential.

Engagements

Sir Peter Tapsell: To ask the Prime Minister if he will list his official engagements for Tuesday 18 July.

The Prime Minister: This morning I had meetings with Ministerial colleagues and others. In addition to my duties in the House I shall be having further meetings later today.

Exchange Rate Mechanism

Sir Teddy Taylor: To ask the Prime Minister if it is the policy of Her Majesty’s Government to advise the House and seek its advice before a decision is made to act as though sterling was in a fixed exchange rate arrangement under the EMU arrangements set out in the Maastricht treaty; and if he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister: I refer the hon. Member to the reply which my hon. Friend the Minister of State at the Department of Trade and Industry gave him on 18 April, Official Report, column 41.